The Honda Del Sol was produced from 1992 to 1998 and is best known as a light, two-seat sports coupe/convertible built on the Civic platform. Yes, automatic versions exist, but they are relatively rare. In most markets, especially the U.S., the performance-oriented Si/VTEC trims were offered with manual transmissions only, while some base-spec Del Sols could be found with a four-speed automatic in certain regions and years.
Transmission options by market
These notes summarize how the Del Sol was typically offered around the world. Availability of an automatic transmission varied by year and region, and most enthusiast-focused models were manual. Use this as a general guide when evaluating a used Del Sol.
- Del Sol S (base/entry trims) — commonly found with manual transmission; in some markets, a four-speed automatic option was available on certain model years.
- Del Sol Si / VTEC variants — performance-focused models that were almost universally manual-only, with a five-speed manual transmission being standard and no automatic option offered.
- Regional differences — North American examples skewed toward manual, while a small number of automatic Del Sols exist in some Asian and European markets where a four-speed automatic was offered on base configurations.
In short, automatic Del Sols do exist, but they are relatively uncommon and largely limited to base configurations in certain regions. If you’re shopping today, expect manuals to be the majority and automatics to be rare finds.
Notes on trims that affect transmission choice
The Del Sol Si or VTEC models were marketed for performance and typically came with a manual only. If you’re trying to verify whether a specific car is automatic, check the model badge, production year, and documentation, as these details strongly indicate transmission type.
How to tell if a Del Sol is automatic
When evaluating a used Del Sol, use these indicators to determine if the car has an automatic transmission rather than a manual. This can help you confirm the vehicle’s spec before a test drive or purchase.
- Shifter position and count — an automatic will have a PRNDL shift pattern and no clutch pedal; a manual will have a clutch pedal and a traditional 5-speed shift pattern.
- Under-hood and engine bay labeling — some markets label the transmission type on the engine bay or near the radiator, and the VIN plate can include transmission data.
- VIN and build sheet — decode the VIN or request the factory build sheet to confirm the transmission type (automatic vs. manual).
- Dealer or service history — look for documentation of an automatic transmission service, flushes, or replacement, which indicates the original configuration.
Knowing these cues can help you distinguish an automatic Del Sol from the more common manual examples, which is especially useful when shopping in markets with mixed availability.
What to consider if you want an automatic Del Sol
Pros and cons of owning an automatic Del Sol can influence your decision beyond transmission type. Automatics can simplify driving in heavy traffic, but they may be less engaging for car enthusiasts who prefer manual shifting, and some automatics from this era can be more expensive to service or repair due to older hydraulic or early electronically controlled systems.
- Pros — easier in traffic, smoother city driving, may have lower wear on the clutch; potential for a comfortable daily driver.
- Cons — fewer manual-performance variants, potential higher maintenance costs for older automatic hardware, and potential difficulty finding replacement parts in certain markets.
If you’re set on an automatic Del Sol, be prepared to search a wider market and verify the exact transmission specification with the seller before committing to a purchase.
Summary
In summary, automatic Honda Del Sols do exist but are relatively rare. The manual-focused Si/VTEC models are common, while some base-spec Del Sols were offered with a four-speed automatic in select markets. When shopping, verify the transmission via the VIN, build sheet, and a test drive to ensure you’re getting the configuration you want. The Del Sol remains a niche classic for fans who value its compact dimensions and sporty handling, regardless of whether it comes with an automatic or manual transmission.